THICKET is a two-player abstract strategy game played on a 6x6 grid of dots. Players take turns drawing orthogonal lines between adjacent dots to enclose areas. When a player completes an enclosure, they claim that area and take another turn. No dot can have more than three lines connected to it, and lines cannot be drawn inside claimed areas. The game ends when no more areas can be claimed. The player who has enclosed the most square spaces wins. THICKET combines elements of territory control and tactical line placement, with the three-connection limit adding a unique strategic element to the gameplay.
Components
- A printed 6x6 grid of dots
- Two pencils (different colors recommended)
Setup
No setup required beyond having the grid and pencils ready.
Gameplay
Players take turns. On your turn:
1. Draw a Line:
- Connect two adjacent dots with an orthogonal line segment.
2. Claim Areas (if applicable):
- If your line completes a chain that encloses an area of empty squares:
a. Claim that area by writing your initials inside it.
b. Take another turn immediately.
3. Observe Restrictions:
- You cannot draw lines inside claimed areas.
- No dot may have more than three line segments connected to it.
Game End
The game ends when all possible areas have been claimed.
Scoring and Winning
- Count the number of square spaces within your claimed areas.
- The player with the most square spaces wins.